“Near death vs. real life”
Posted on Wednesday, September 11, 2013 by
I'm not sure if you saw me in the crowd but I was one of the 67,000+ that recently set the Seattle Sounders attendance record. Amazing game, unbelievable view, ridiculous parking and really expensive food--that about sums it up.
Except for the many near death experiences I witnessed. It is AMAZING how quickly soccer players recover from injuries! It seemed like every 7 minutes a player would get caught up with an opponent (or, in their mind, assaulted) and dissolve into a mass of groans and agony, writhing on the ground in pain. The first episode caught my attention and I was sure charges would be pressed. Yet somehow after two minutes of what must've been ambulatory help or healing prayer (we were too far up to see what happened in that magical huddle around the "victim") the player popped right up and ran down the field. The acting was right up there with Full House (that's for you 80s fans) or any soap opera.
As I watched the game from my sweet seats I was reminded how many times I exaggerate just how difficult my life can be. You mean I have to walk 1/2 mile from my car to the stadium? My shoes have a stain on them?! The mail isn't here yet?! Injustice!!
Then I remember the stories I hear every day from kids involved in our YFC ministries. The 16 year old who can't go home during the day because his grandmother locks him out until she gets home from work at 10 pm. The 14 year old girl who is being pressured to become a prostitute because the money comes "easily". The 13 year old who is raising her siblings because mom is addicted to crack.
Often in my life I'm just like the prima donna soccer player--exaggeration becomes a sad art. My problems, my struggles are as real as yours, there's no denying that. I can't ignore my frustration or anxiety as it's the reality in my life. But in comparison to the problems that plague the kids we minister to across Pierce County, my "problems" are the slightest of inconveniences.
So, the next time I watch soccer and see the "flop" and mock injury it'll be a reminder to stop and pray for kids who face much more difficult problems. No need to exaggerate, their situations need the Great Healer, Jesus, to bring hope and restore their lives.